Davenport Disk Replacement Surgery

If you have suffered a back injury or experience chronic pain, you may be considering disk replacement surgery in Davenport. The decision to undergo surgery is significant and can be daunting, particularly when you don’t know where to start.

At Orthopedic and Laser Spine Surgery (OLSS), we understand the challenges of seeking quality medical care and the importance of finding qualified doctors. This article answers some questions you may have about disk replacement surgery and how a spine surgeon at OLSS can help.

What Is Disk Replacement Surgery?

Disk replacement surgery is a surgical procedure of the spine that involves removing a damaged or degenerated spinal disc and replacing it with an artificial disc. Also known as artificial disc replacement surgery, the procedure is an alternative to spinal fusion surgery, which uses bone grafts to fuse two or more vertebrae. Unlike spinal fusion, Davenport disk replacement surgery preserves the range of motion in the spine and can help reduce pain and improve mobility.

Disk replacement surgery is typically recommended for people with severe disk degeneration, herniated disks, or other spinal conditions that have not responded to non-surgical treatments. The artificial disc, made of materials such as metal or plastic, is designed to mimic the natural movement and function of a healthy spinal disc.

Individuals who qualify for this procedure often have exhausted all other conservative treatments, such as physical therapy and anti-inflammatory injections, without relief. They usually have one or two damaged or degenerated discs and no significant spinal deformity. The candidate may be required to have a healthy weight and not be a smoker, as smoking can slow down the healing process after surgery. They should also be in relatively good health, without any underlying conditions that would make surgery too risky. Before considering this surgery, a thorough evaluation with a spine specialist is necessary to determine if it’s the best treatment option.

What to Expect from Disk Replacement Surgery in Davenport

If you are considering Davenport disk replacement surgery, first recognize what the procedure involves and what you can expect. Before the surgery, your surgeon will thoroughly evaluate your medical history and conduct diagnostic tests, such as MRI or CT scans, to determine the extent of the damage to your disk.

During the surgery, your surgeon makes an incision in your abdomen or neck, depending on the location of the affected disk. The damaged disk is then removed, and an artificial one is inserted in its place. After the surgery, you stay in the hospital for a few days to recover. Recuperating from disk replacement surgery is a gradual process. How long it takes to heal fully can vary, subject to factors such as the extent of the surgery, a patient’s age, and overall health.

Generally, patients are advised to rest and avoid physical activity for several weeks following the surgery, with a gradual return to normal activities over several months. Physical therapy and pain management may also be recommended to help the patient regain mobility and manage any discomfort associated with the surgery. Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your incision, including activities to avoid during the healing process, such as:

• Lifting heavy objects as it can strain your back
• Bending or twisting, which may stress the surgical area
• Driving as sitting for an extended period 
• Smoking during the recovery period 
• Alcohol consumption 
• Strenuous exercises such as weightlifting, running, or high-intensity workouts

Although recovery is unique to every patient, disk replacement surgery is considered a safe and effective treatment option for chronic back pain. Patients must follow post-operative instructions carefully and undergo a period of rehabilitation to help strengthen the back muscles and improve their range of motion. 

Why Choose Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery?

Disk replacement surgery is a complex and delicate procedure that requires a high level of surgical skills and a thorough understanding of the patient’s medical history for accurate diagnosis. Choosing a seasoned surgeon is crucial, as they can assess your condition accurately and recommend the best treatment options for your specific needs. This may include non-surgical approaches or alternative procedures that may be more appropriate for your condition.

Disk replacement surgery carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, nerve damage, or implant failure. Finding a qualified spine specialist can help minimize the chances of related complications. 

At OLSS, we specialize in minimally-invasive spine surgery, including disk replacement surgery. Our team of spine specialists includes board-certified orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons with years of experience treating various types of spinal conditions. We employ the latest technology and techniques to offer our patients the most advanced care available. 

Contact the Experienced Team of Davenport Disk Replacement Surgeons at Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery Today

If you are a candidate for disk replacement surgery in Davenport, Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery can help. During the initial evaluation, we take the time to listen to your concerns and answer every question so you feel comfortable and confident in our care. The goal is to obtain an accurate diagnosis to enable us to determine the most effective treatment that will help you fully recover and return to your daily activities as quickly as possible.

Our team of Davenport disk replacement surgeons has the knowledge and expertise to provide you with the highest-quality treatment. We are committed to personalized care and will work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Contact us today at (855) 853-6542, or visit our website and fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation toward your first steps to a pain-free journey.